Unplugged and Unconventional: How Celebrities Are Redefining Their Digital Lives

Stars Unplugged: A Glimpse into the Quirky Tech Habits of Hollywood's A-Listers

In today's fast-paced celebrity culture, the way stars interact with technology and social media can be as riveting as their on-screen performances. While most of us rely heavily on smartphones and digital connectivity, some celebrities have taken a step back—either unplugging completely or adopting quirky social media habits that leave fans buzzing. This exploration uncovers how a range of personalities, from music icons like Ed Sheeran to legendary actors like Christopher Walken, navigate their digital lives in ways that often defy convention.

Ed Sheeran, known for his chart-topping hits, made a shocking revelation in 2025—he has not used a cellphone in a decade. During an appearance on "The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon," Sheeran shared that his decision to disconnect stemmed from experiences related to a particularly invasive copyright lawsuit. As part of the legal process, he surrendered all his old devices, including his phone. What he discovered upon receiving his old phone back was startling; messages from friends, family, and even from loved ones who had passed away flooded in, giving him a surreal glimpse into a past he had left behind. Sheeran’s approach seems almost therapeutic in a world where constant notifications and messages can feel overwhelming. He now communicates through a tablet, emphasizing the need for personal privacy and connection on his terms, illustrating that in some ways, less truly can be more.

Sarah Jessica Parker, the beloved "Sex and the City" star, also opted to simplify her communication methods. While she hasn't fully embraced the digital detox like Sheeran, Parker has shifted away from the pressures of a smartphone, preferring to use email to manage her communications. Speaking with E! News, she expressed the stress associated with managing voicemails—especially from unknown callers—preferring the less immediate nature of email correspondences. In Hollywood, where every second is monitored and every text can spark a rumor, Parker's choice serves not only as a personal preference but as a relatable approach for anyone feeling overwhelmed by the incessant pace of digital communication.

Then there's Simon Cowell, the television mogul and promoter of talent, who decided to ditch his phone long before the pandemic heightened the digital frenzy. The turning point came when he woke to find an overwhelming 52 unread messages, leading him to realize that his phone had stopped him from living fully. Cowell embraced a life without a smartphone, ultimately enjoying the peace it brought him. He warns about the detrimental effects of too much technology in our lives, noting how it intrudes on personal interactions, a reminder that engaging with the physical world can often enhance our experiences far more than online platforms.

But it doesn’t stop there. Dolly Parton, a country music legend, has also taken a unique stance on technology by relying solely on a fax machine for most of her communications. During an appearance on "The View," she humorously recounted how friends would need to reach her through this outdated method, joking that she would even consider carrier pigeons if necessary. Parton's reasoning is straightforward—she believes that engaging too much with digital devices is not only a distraction but takes precious time away from other important activities. Even her goddaughter, Miley Cyrus, confirmed that their correspondence often involves a complex relay of faxes transformed into text messages, underscoring how some famous personalities enjoy a different rhythm in their interactions.

The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills' Kathy Hilton experienced a moment of panic when she lost her phone during a cast trip. Faced with strange noises in her accommodation and with only her iPad to communicate, Hilton resorted to her husband’s Instagram to plead for help. The situation humorously encapsulates the pitfalls of tech dependence while showcasing the vulnerabilities that even the rich and famous face. Instead of smoothly navigating the complexities of their technophile lives, Hilton found herself awkwardly broadcasting her distress to fans, adding a layer of absurdity to her predicament.

Even in the realm of comedy and performance, legends like Christopher Walken have made clear their disinterest in technology. Walken has articulated his decision to live without modern electronic conveniences; he simply prefers a lifestyle untouched by smartphones and laptops. He openly stated that he doesn’t own any technology beyond a satellite dish. His minimalist approach allows him to maintain a level of focus that many find refreshing, proving that even in a world that constantly demands digital engagement, finding peace in simplicity is possible.

Lastly, let’s not forget the extravagant social media antics of WWE's Ric Flair, whose habit of capitalizing every word in his tweets adds a uniquely flamboyant touch to his digital presence. While most users would be content with simple capitalization, Flair's unique quirk reflects his larger-than-life persona. It’s a testament to how celebrities can redefine norms in digital communication, bringing their individuality and brand directly to fans, even through less traditional means.

These celebrities remind us that in a world dominated by technology, there are multiple paths to connection. Whether they choose to unplug from the incessant chatter or engage with their fans in unusual ways, they highlight the ongoing discussion about digital presence and personal boundaries. Their experiences contribute to a broader conversation about the impact of technology in our lives—both cautionary and inspiring—prompting us all to consider our relationship with the devices we rely on every day. In an age where everyone seems tethered to their screens, it’s a breath of fresh air to see icons navigating this digital landscape on their own terms.